Prioritize clearance of children matters – CJ Koome urges judges

By , K24 Digital
On Thu, 3 Nov, 2022 11:15 | 2 mins read
Koome
Chief Justice Martha Koome. PHOTO/Courtesy

Chief Justice Martha Koome has urged the Judiciary to prioritize the clearance of children's cases.

In a release sent to newsrooms on Thursday, November 3, 2022, the CJ acknowledged that the backlog of children cases was still an issue yet to be dealt with and called on the judiciary to enhance prompt action on the matter through expeditious disposal.

"Colleagues, as we embark on this years’ Service Month, let us prioritize clearance of the Children matters, especially those that have been in courts beyond the statutory six months," Koome stated.

She also directed courts across the country to hold the annual November Service Month on children's matters to promote children's rights.

"To further build on these gains, I have directed all courts throughout the country to hold the Annual November Service Month on Children Matters, with a view to not only clear backlog of children cases but also to promote the rights of the child within the communities," the CJ added.

Additionally, the CJ urged the cabinet secretary responsible for children's matters to facilitate the gazettement of regulations once finalised.

While encouraging the establishment of Children's Court User Committees, the CJ further called upon court users committees to collaborate with law enforcement officers and relevant authorities to ensure that justice for children is effectively implemented.

"In our African culture, children belong to the community, and we can only protect them if we all come together. I, therefore, encourage the establishment of Children's Court User Committees, which are instrumental in coordinating the delivery of justice in children matters and act as a vehicle to sensitize the community on matters related to child justice,

"In this regard, I recognize Kakuma Law Courts and Machakos Law Courts for launching their Children Court User Committees to ensure that the CUC focuses on and includes officers handling children in the system," Koome added.

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